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Droopy eyelid (ptosis)

Also called: Droopy eyelid, ptosis, blepharoptosis

An upper eyelid that sags, sometimes blocking vision. Most come with age; sudden drooping can be a stroke or nerve problem and needs care right away.

Common causeAging, stretched lid muscle
Urgent ifSudden, with double vision or headache
TreatmentSurgery, eye drops for some

Overview

Children with ptosis need eye checks to prevent lazy eye.

Myasthenia gravis causes drooping that worsens with tiredness.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Droopy eyelid
  • Watery eye or droopy eyelid on the same side

Less common

  • Blocked vision

When to get medical care

Call 911Sudden drooping with double vision, severe headache, or Sudden face drooping, arm weakness, trouble speaking, or vision loss: call 911.
Get care todayDrooping with a large pupil or eye pain.
See a doctor soonDrooping that blocks vision.

Causes

Aging, nerve problems.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Older age
  • Contact lens use

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A clinician examines.

Questions you may be asked

  • When it started

The exam

Eyelid and nerve exam.

Treatment

Treatment depends on cause.

Self-care

  • Note if it changes during the day

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Eye drops
Mild acquired ptosisPrescription.

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Eyelid surgery lifts the lid.

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to an ophthalmologist (eye doctor and surgeon) or an optometrist.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Fixable.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Droopy eyelid (ptosis)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.